"NEWS FROM THE FIRESIDE"

$5,450

2005-07-01T13:48:00.000-05:00

Please help.
We are presently trying to raise money to meet some of our critical upgrade needs. Please stop by FIRESIDE INTERNATIONAL and help us help the poor.

For those who don't know...

2005-05-06T09:45:00.000-05:00

...check out my personal blog.

Cre8tive musings usually gets more traffic and consists of a wider range of subject matter than Fireside's Web Log. Why not bookmark them both!

click here to get there quickly.

Love you all!
Luke Renner

2005 dates are as follows:

"Vision Quest" - Trip 1
JUNE 10 - 19
_____

"Discover Haiti" - Trip 1
JULY 9 - 15
_____

"Vision Quest" - Trip 2
AUGUST 14 - 23

*For more information about the differences between the "Discover Haiti" and the "Vision Quest" trips, please click here. Due to the complexities of the "Vision Quest" trips, space is extremely limited. As such, those interested will be asked to fill out a basic application. That will allow us to build the best team possible for each excursion. FIRESIDE INTERNATIONAL reserves the right to refuse the "Vision Quest" experience to any person(s) it deems "unfit" (either spiritually, emotionally, physically, or otherwise). Applicants who are denied (for whatever reason) may re-apply for a future "Vision Quest" trip or immediately assume a position on the next available "Discover Haiti" trip. Do not be intimidated by the application process. We don't bite. The application process in only in place because we know exactly what you're "in for" and you do not. We don't want you to bite off more than you can chew. Also, please be aware, each "Vision Quest" trip is presently under review for possible shortening. Nine days might be a tad too long for first-time visitors to Haiti. Our results for this decision will be made known as soon as they are made.

"Base Camp Announced"
Each trip that FIRESIDE INTERNATIONAL hosts will have it's own dedicated website that acts as an information hub and as Base Camp for the groups traveling on a specific set of dates. Currently, only the "Vision Quest" sites are up for 2005. Please feel free to visit them regularly for information updates and changes. For those checking on "Discover Haiti" sites, please keep checking back for a link. It will be posted shortly.

Here are the sites:

"Vision Quest" - Trip 1

"Vision Quest" - Trip 2

Fulfilling Obligations

2005-05-02T12:19:00.000-05:00

Greetings one and all! That's right, we have NOT dropped off the face of this glorious planet. We're still kicking. SO MANY THINGS going on right now but I thought that I would just pop in and offer you a small peek into my "life-space" as it stands right now.

One of the biggest lessons that I have personally been trying to learn as of late is that of the importance of servant hood. As I am learning, you are either a servant or you are not. There are no two ways about it. And, as the Bible tells us, you cannot serve two masters.

So the posts have been few and far between right now because I am fighting hard to wrap up outstanding obligations that I have had. Wedding videos, favors, and other assorted prior commitments are being attended to and swept off the plate in order to make way for our fully-attended, complete focus on God's call on our lives. Thanks for your patience during this time. We do so look forward to announcing some very exciting news in the not-too-distant future. Stay tuned!

As of this post, all trips are still current and will take place. Check back regularly for updates as schedules can change.

Love you all!
Luke Renner

2005 dates are as follows:

"Vision Quest" - Trip 1
JUNE 10 - 19
_____

"Discover Haiti" - Trip 1
JULY 9 - 15
_____

"Vision Quest" - Trip 2
AUGUST 14 - 23

*For more information about the differences between the "Discover Haiti" and the "Vision Quest" trips, please click here. Due to the complexities of the "Vision Quest" trips, space is extremely limited. As such, those interested will be asked to fill out a basic application. That will allow us to build the best team possible for each excursion. FIRESIDE INTERNATIONAL reserves the right to refuse the "Vision Quest" experience to any person(s) it deems "unfit" (either spiritually, emotionally, physically, or otherwise). Applicants who are denied (for whatever reason) may re-apply for a future "Vision Quest" trip or immediately assume a position on the next available "Discover Haiti" trip. Do not be intimidated by the application process. We don't bite. The application process in only in place because we know exactly what you're "in for" and you do not. We don't want you to bite off more than you can chew. Also, please be aware, each "Vision Quest" trip is presently under review for possible shortening. Nine days might be a tad too long for first-time visitors to Haiti. Our results for this decision will be made known as soon as they are made.

"Base Camp Announced"
Each trip that FIRESIDE INTERNATIONAL hosts will have it's own dedicated website that acts as an information hub and as Base Camp for the groups traveling on a specific set of dates. Currently, only the "Vision Quest" sites are up for 2005. Please feel free to visit them regularly for information updates and changes. For those checking on "Discover Haiti" sites, please keep checking back for a link. It will be posted shortly.

Here are the sites:

"Vision Quest" - Trip 1

"Vision Quest" - Trip 2

UPDATE

2005-03-21T14:37:00.000-05:00

We invite you to come with us as we whisk away to the beautiful Caribbean and meet a people of extraordinary beauty and strength. Prepare to be changed. Haiti awaits!

2005 dates are as follows:

"Vision Quest" - Trip 1
JUNE 10 - 19
_____

"Discover Haiti" - Trip 1
JULY 9 - 15
_____

"Vision Quest" - Trip 2
AUGUST 14 - 23

*For more information about the differences between the "Discover Haiti" and the "Vision Quest" trips, please click here. Due to the complexities of the "Vision Quest" trips, space is extremely limited. As such, those interested will be asked to fill out a basic application. That will allow us to build the best team possible for each excursion. FIRESIDE INTERNATIONAL reserves the right to refuse the "Vision Quest" experience to any person(s) it deems "unfit" (either spiritually, emotionally, physically, or otherwise). Applicants who are denied (for whatever reason) may re-apply for a future "Vision Quest" trip or immediately assume a position on the next available "Discover Haiti" trip. Do not be intimidated by the application process. We don't bite. The application process in only in place because we know exactly what you're "in for" and you do not. We don't want you to bite off more than you can chew. Also, please be aware, each "Vision Quest" trip is presently under review for possible shortening. Nine days might be a tad too long for first-time visitors to Haiti. Our results for this decision will be made known as soon as they are made.

"Base Camp Announced"
Each trip that FIRESIDE INTERNATIONAL hosts will have it's own dedicated website that acts as an information hub and as Base Camp for the groups traveling on a specific set of dates. Currently, only the "Vision Quest" sites are up for 2005. Please feel free to visit them regularly for information updates and changes. For those checking on "Discover Haiti" sites, please keep checking back for a link. It will be posted shortly.

Here are the sites:

"Vision Quest" - Trip 1

"Vision Quest" - Trip 2

HAITI TRIPS - DATES ANNOUNCED!.

2005-02-17T11:13:00.000-05:00

We invite you to come with us as we whisk away to the beautiful Caribbean and meet a people of extraordinary beauty and strength. Prepare to be changed. Haiti awaits!

TRIP DATES ANNOUNCED.
2005 dates are as follows:

"Vision Quest" - Trip 1
JUNE 10 - 19
_____

"Discover Haiti" - Trip 1
JULY 9 - 15
_____

"Vision Quest" - Trip 2
AUGUST 14 - 23

*For more information about the differences between the "Discover Haiti" and the "Vision Quest" trips, please read below. Due to the complexities of the "Vision Quest" trips, space is extremely limited. As such, those interested will be asked to fill out a basic application. That will allow us to build the best team possible for each excursion. FIRESIDE INTERNATIONAL reserves the right to refuse the "Vision Quest" experience to any person(s) it deems "unfit" (either spiritually, emotionally, physically, or otherwise). Applicants who are denied (for whatever reason) may re-apply for a future "Vision Quest" trip or immediately assume a position on the next available "Discover Haiti" trip. Do not be intimidated by the application process. We don't bite. The application process in only in place because we know exactly what you're "in for" and you do not. We don't want you to bite off more than you can chew.

"Trip Cost"
The cost of each trip is $1,200.
This includes airfare, transportation in-country, lodging, and food in-country (not airport food for the way there and back). Any "pocket money" you wish to take on top of that will be up to you. Additional expenses that you should at least consider are as follows:

- Passport
It is your responsibility to provide a passport. If you already have one, be sure that it will not expire before the return date of the trip you wish to take.

- Medical
Those of you who are going on the "Vision Quest" trips are strongly encouraged to make certain that your tetanus vaccination is current. You are not REQUIRED to do this. Each participant will have to sign a medical release form before taking a trip.

"Getting Ready"
FIRESIDE INTERNATIONAL will host an interest meeting for those who have a desire to go. Please Email us if you would like to be a part of this meeting. We will then drop you a line to let you know when that will take place.

"Why Haiti?"
The purpose of these trips is to offer you, our fellow friends and family, the opportunity to experience a part of this planet which has so dramatically influenced both Adrian and myself. What good would we be if we just kept this all to ourselves? It's time to share!

"Discover Haiti"
The first excursion, "Discover Haiti," is an eye-opening journey into the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. On this trip, you will be exposed to the Haitian people, their culture, and many facets of their daily lives. At the end of each day, you will return to a safe and comfortable hotel (which kisses the pebble shores of the Caribbean) and have the opportunity to reflect and process the day's events. By no means should you think this trip is plush. Haiti is a difficult place to be. There are personal challenges and difficulties at every turn. Flexibility is important. That withstanding, this is the trip of choice for most people who travel with FIRESIDE INTERNATIONAL. Strenuous activity is minimized, while constant and engaging exposure to real people in real places is paramount. Often times, trip participants will be given opportunities to serve the people of Haiti in some way, shape, or form.

Each "Discover Haiti" excursion is limited to a maximum number of 10 persons (plus one approved, FIRESIDE INTERNATIONAL guide). Participants under the age of 18 must have signed permission form a parent or legal guardian.

"Vision Quest"
Inspired by the traditions of North America's Native American Indians, "Vision Quest" trips are designed to immerse participants in a world that is entirely foreign and free from the "comforts" that often keep us from true change or progress. Each participant is allowed only one backpack which will contain all that he or she will have for a period of 10 days.
*FIRESIDE INTERNATIONAL reserves the right to refuse the inclusion of certain items it deems inappropriate.

While each "Vision Quest" will be thoroughly exciting and engaging, this is no picnic. Participants will spend the entire time living in an actual, functioning Haitian village. Days will be spent alongside Haitians as they clean clothes, journey to the market, prepare food, worship, work the land, and so on. Personal privacy will be greatly reduced (though concerns of basic male/female modesty will be respected and maintained). At the end of each day, participants will remain in the village and spend the night. No hotels will be visited.

Haiti is hot. Haiti is dirty. This is NOT to be mistaken for a vacation. "Vision Quest" trips are not for the faint of heart. Applicants must be absolutely committed to seeking God through total immersion in a way of life that is, by definition, staggeringly different (from the U.S.A.) and remarkably difficult. In every sense of the word, a "Vision Quest" trip is a 10-day fast. While food will be provided, the creature comforts of North American life will be removed.

Out of respect for the village, each "Vision Quest" excursion is limited to a maximum number of 5 persons (plus one approved, FIRESIDE INTERNATIONAL guide). ALL PERSONS MUST SIGN A RELEASE FORM. Participants under the age of 18 must have signed permission by a parent or legal guardian.
*FIRESIDE INTERNATIONAL reserves the right to refuse this opportunity to any individuals who exhibit potentially problematic conditions (i.e. health conditions, inability to submit to authority, lack of respect for others, immaturity, etc).

"Sign up now!"
Staggeringly, people are signing up quickly. If you wish to be a part of one of the FIRESIDE INTERNATIONAL excursions to Haiti (in 2005), please Email Me as soon as possible.

"Gonaives UPDATE"
For those who haven't yet seen the video, we have left it online a little while longer. Presently, this video's closing information has been updated and the piece has been given to GLOW Ministries International as a tool with which they will continue to raise funds for disaster relief.

Thanks for visiting! Check back again for updates and more video.

May God truly bless whatever you can do.

In service to others,
Luke and Adrian Renner

*Music track credit - "Libera Boys Choir - Attendite"

HAITI TRIPS SCHEDULED.

2005-01-31T02:46:00.000-05:00

We invite you to come with us as we whisk away to the beautiful Caribbean and meet a people of extraordinary beauty and strength. Prepare to be changed. Haiti awaits!

TRIP DATES ANNOUNCED.
2005 dates are as follows:

"Vision Quest" - Trip 1
JUNE 10 - 19
_____

"Discover Haiti" - Trip 1
JULY 9 - 15
_____

"Vision Quest" - Trip 2
AUGUST 14 - 23
*For more information about the differences between the "Discover Haiti" and the "Vision Quest" trips, please read below. Due to the complexities of the "Vision Quest" trips, space is extremely limited. As such, those interested will be asked to fill out a basic application. That will allow us to build the best team possible for each excursion. FIRESIDE INTERNATIONAL reserves the right to refuse the "Vision Quest" experience to any person(s) it deems "unfit" (either spiritually, emotionally, physically, or otherwise). Applicants who are denied (for whatever reason) may re-apply for a future "Vision Quest" trip or immediately assume a position on the next available "Discover Haiti" trip. Do not be intimidated by the application process. We don't bite. The application process in only in place because we know exactly what you're "in for" and you do not. We don't want you to bite off more than you can chew.

"Trip Cost"
The cost of each trip is $1,200.
This includes airfare, transportation in-country, lodging, and food in-country (not airport food for the way there and back). Any "pocket money" you wish to take on top of that will be up to you. Additional expenses that you should at least consider are as follows:

- Passport
It is your responsibility to provide a passport. If you already have one, be sure that it will not expire before the return date of the trip you wish to take.

- Medical
Those of you who are going on the "Vision Quest" trips are strongly encouraged to make certain that your tetanus vaccination is current. You are not REQUIRED to do this. Each participant will have to sign a medical release form before taking a trip.

"Getting Ready"
FIRESIDE INTERNATIONAL will host an interest meeting for those who have a desire to go. Please Email us if you would like to be a part of this meeting. We will then drop you a line to let you know when that will take place.

"Why Haiti?"
The purpose of these trips is to offer you, our fellow friends and family, the opportunity to experience a part of this planet which has so dramatically influenced both Adrian and myself. What good would we be if we just kept this all to ourselves? It's time to share!

"Discover Haiti"
The first excursion, "Discover Haiti," is an eye-opening journey into the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. On this trip, you will be exposed to the Haitian people, their culture, and many facets of their daily lives. At the end of each day, you will return to a safe and comfortable hotel (which kisses the pebble shores of the Caribbean) and have the opportunity to reflect and process the day's events. By no means should you think this trip is plush. Haiti is a difficult place to be. There are personal challenges and difficulties at every turn. Flexibility is important. That withstanding, this is the trip of choice for most people who travel with FIRESIDE INTERNATIONAL. Strenuous activity is minimized, while constant and engaging exposure to real people in real places is paramount. Often times, trip participants will be given opportunities to serve the people of Haiti in some way, shape, or form.

Each "Discover Haiti" excursion is limited to a maximum number of 10 persons (plus one approved, FIRESIDE INTERNATIONAL guide). Participants under the age of 18 must have signed permission form a parent or legal guardian.

"Vision Quest"
Inspired by the traditions of North America's Native American Indians, "Vision Quest" trips are designed to immerse participants in a world that is entirely foreign and free from the "comforts" that often keep us from true change or progress. Each participant is allowed only one backpack which will contain all that he or she will have for a period of 10 days.
*FIRESIDE INTERNATIONAL reserves the right to refuse the inclusion of certain items it deems inappropriate.

While each "Vision Quest" will be thoroughly exciting and engaging, this is no picnic. Participants will spend the entire time living in an actual, functioning Haitian village. Days will be spent alongside Haitians as they clean clothes, journey to the market, prepare food, worship, work the land, and so on. Personal privacy will be greatly reduced (though concerns of basic male/female modesty will be respected and maintained). At the end of each day, participants will remain in the village and spend the night. No hotels will be visited.

Haiti is hot. Haiti is dirty. This is NOT to be mistaken for a vacation. "Vision Quest" trips are not for the faint of heart. Applicants must be absolutely committed to seeking God through total immersion in a way of life that is, by definition, staggeringly different (from the U.S.A.) and remarkably difficult. In every sense of the word, a "Vision Quest" trip is a 10-day fast. While food will be provided, the creature comforts of North American life will be removed.

Out of respect for the village, each "Vision Quest" excursion is limited to a maximum number of 5 persons (plus one approved, FIRESIDE INTERNATIONAL guide). ALL PERSONS MUST SIGN A RELEASE FORM. Participants under the age of 18 must have signed permission by a parent or legal guardian.
*FIRESIDE INTERNATIONAL reserves the right to refuse this opportunity to any individuals who exhibit potentially problematic conditions (i.e. health conditions, inability to submit to authority, lack of respect for others, immaturity, etc).

"Sign up now!"
Staggeringly, people are signing up quickly. If you wish to be a part of one of the FIRESIDE INTERNATIONAL excursions to Haiti (in 2005), please Email Me as soon as possible.

"Gonaives UPDATE"
For those who haven't yet seen the video, we have left it online a little while longer. Presently, this video's closing information has been updated and the piece has been given to GLOW Ministries International as a tool with which they will continue to raise funds for disaster relief.

Thanks for visiting! Check back again for updates and more video.

May God truly bless whatever you can do.

In service to others,
Luke and Adrian Renner

*Music track credit - "Libera Boys Choir - Attendite"

Fireside Update: Haiti.

2004-12-17T01:19:00.000-05:00

"Taking Stock."
Well, we are home now, having officially completed our first excursion under our organization's brand new title, "Fireside International."

I am pleased (and a bit dazzled) to report that God moved tremendously during the course of this last trip to Haiti. I don't mean to say "dazzled" as though I didn't expect God's provision. It's just that, it was SO OVERWHELMINGLY EVIDENT during this trip, it got to be a little bit funny. Suffice it to say, the trip was by no means ordinary. Day after day and moment by moment, God revealed His agenda before the lenses of our cameras. We were only privy to it after the fact. It required no planning, just willingness and action. Allow me to share.

"UPDATE: Gonaives."
Gonaives was a ghost town. Unlike other parts of Haiti where I have traveled, this particular corner was completely devoid of purpose or hope. No one was smiling. Believe it or not, that's very unusual for Haiti. Walking down the dusty side-streets, we passed countless people, standing at the gates to their homes, staring blankly into oblivion. It was not quite three months after everything (and perhaps everyone) in their life had been washed away in a matter of only a few hours.

In September of 2004, as hurricane Jeanne's outer fingers would drop over a foot of rain onto Haiti's naked mountains, a silent but deadly swell of water would creep into town, just as evening was settling in. By nightfall, bodies from further upstream would begin washing through town as the water grew to a depth of over 9 feet. People scrambled to get atop two story buildings. Many were unable. Thousands died.

"Fireside International" was inspired to visit this area, so many months after the newsworthiness of her plight had subsided with the water. What we saw is difficult to describe with words. On one hand, the situation is staggeringly hopeless when you consider that this plot of God-forsaken land is approximately 700 miles from the richest nation on earth. On the other hand, some progress was being made. Some help was being offered. As it is our commitment, Fireside International seeks to educate you with the following account.

"Summation."
Of course, we gather LOTS more footage than what you see posted above. Unfortunately, due to our current web limitations, we can only post so much at any one time.

Thanks again to all who have chosen to support the vision. GOD IS MOVING. Plans are already underway to expand our reach and rise to bigger and newer challenges. Furthermore, we are continually doing everything we know to do at reaching larger audiences with the message of the world's overwhelming needs. Please pray for us as we passionately pursue God's direction for this organization.

If you wish to provide immediate assistance to the families and people of Gonaives, contact us via E-mail and we will help you do so.

"Our Goals."
Presently, Fireside International has the following goals:

GOAL 1: To pay off all outstanding debt and upgrade several key pieces of equipment.
***UPDATE: Through the generous support of a handful of corporations, couples, and individuals, God has just provided a brand new camera! Thanks SO MUCH to all of you who made generous contributions. We will stand fast by our vision of capturing and delivering important and real stories that will change lives. Presently, the needs in this category are still substantial. By paying off remaining debt and upgrading certain key pieces of equipment, our turnaround time will increase and we will be able to better tell more stories, faster.

GOAL 2: To develop an online website that provides information about our organization, regular news updates, online forum, regularly updated streaming video, community sponsorship programs, "Vision Quest" online application and information, and an online application for NGOs (non government organizations) who seek to secure our services in telling their story.
***UPDATE: Personnel for the creation of this online site have been secured for a staggeringly good price. We now await the necessary funds.

For any information on how to help us meet these goals, please contact us via E-mail at FirsideInt@mac.com

Thanks for visiting! Check back again for updates and more video.

May God truly bless whatever you can do.

In service to others,
Luke and Adrian Renner

FIELD REPORT 1

2004-11-29T07:01:00.000-05:00

"SUNBURNED ON THE FIRST DAY!"
The tops of the ears are crispy. The jeans are dusty. The Sketchers are cracked along the sole. And the trip is going splendidly!

"Up the mountain..."
Our first day (which felt more like our 6th day) was a trophy day. The weather was pleasant as we bounced up the side of the naked mountain. As usual, her children were naked too as they scrambled out from behind the gates to greet the oncoming machine.

"The vision IGNITES..."
Ben Griffith and I were accompanied by a dear Haitian brother who, for reasons that are yet to be divulged, shall remain nameless. I was stunned to see this man toting a small video camera of his own. It was a very nice digital8 handycam (SONY). For those who don't know, such a possession is pretty well unheard of for Haitians.

As I plugged him with questions related to the camera, this young man produced a tape from his bag. On the spine label, in Hatian Creole was the word "Genocide." By the end of the day, he was sitting in our hotel room writing his story as I dubbed the footage over.

I won't even bother say what was on the tape, but someday soon... you will see for yourself.

"Still changing..."
The vision of Fireside International seems to be news to me as I daily encounter new and wonderful things that seem to apply to the unspeakable things my heart has been trying to get through my thick skull. On Sunday, the vision took on a new breadth. To be able to empower the people of the world to tell their OWN stories is an ever present desire of mine and soon to be an addendum to the policy of Fireside International.

Thanks again to all who have chosen to support the vision. GOD IS MOVING. There is no doubt that we are on the verge. Of what, no one knows. But a verge nontheless.

OK GOTTA GO!

"PLEASE SUPPORT..."
This trip is NOT COMPLETELY PAID FOR.

Please, now more than ever, dig deep and consider what gift you can give. 5 bucks. 10 bucks. 20 bucks. It ALL helps more than you can know. Here's an idea.

For 5 bucks, we can put some gas in the truck, which will help us to reach a city that was devastated by the Hurricane.
For a little less than 10 bucks, we can buy one videocassette which allows us to document up to 83 minutes of footage.
For 20 bucks, we can feed the crew, or the Haitians, or pay an interpreter, etc.

Give up fast food for one day and send that money. Don't see that movie... just once in your life. Whatever. Be creative.

"How to pray..."
Please pray for protection for the families that we are leaving behind with this trip. The enemy of our souls does attack home the hardest during these sorts of excursions. It's probably because our enemy knows how powerful the home can be at dictating the direction of our lives. As one comedian put it, "Happy wife... happy life."

Of course the wives and loved ones of those who are going on the trip are completely supportive. I don't mean to imply that they feel a huge sacrifice is being made. But attacks (especially those that are significant) can do a lot to work on a person's motivation. Pray for strength and resolve at home.

"In closing..."
On behalf of the suffering human beings who will directly benefit from your generosity, we say "thank you" and that we greatly appreciate your consideration in the matter at hand.

To make a donation (if you haven't done so already) please contact Ray Renner by phone at (765) 215-0180. It doesn't mean you have to have the money to us by then, but knowing what your involvement will be can help us better plan. Again, remember that all donations are tax deductible and April is closing in fast!

May God truly bless whatever you can do.

In Christ's Service,
Luke and Adrian Renner

2004-11-20T04:09:00.001-05:00

"HAITI TRIP HAS BEEN SCHEDULED!"
Money is still trickling in and the trip has been scheduled.

"Taking Stock..."
Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of a small number of people, a beautiful camera has been purchased and the vision of Fireside International is about to unfold in full-force. Adrian and I are absolutely humbled and honored to have been trusted with such a vision and the equipment to back it up. Thanks to all who have given and are still planning on giving.

"More to do..."
Funds are still needed. Make no mistake... every tiny little bit DOES MAKE A DIFFERENCE. Someone gave thirteen dollars the other day. What a HUGE blessing that was! If more of God's people gave just thirteen dollars, there would scarce be a needy person among us.

"Making cents..."
Please, now more than ever, dig deep and consider what gift you can give. 5 bucks. 10 bucks. 20 bucks. It ALL helps more than you can know. Here's an idea.

For 5 bucks, we can put some gas in the truck, which will help us to reach a city that was devastated by the Hurricane.
For a little less than 10 bucks, we can buy one videocassette which allows us to document up to 83 minutes of footage.
For 20 bucks, we can feed the crew, or the Haitians, or pay an interpreter, etc.

"How to pray..."
Please pray for protection for the families that we are leaving behind with this trip. The enemy of our souls does attack home the hardest during these sorts of excursions. It's probably because our enemy knows how powerful the home can be at dictating the direction of our lives. As one comedian put it, "Happy wife... happy life."

Of course the wives and loved ones of those who are going on the trip are completely supportive. I don't mean to imply that they feel a huge sacrifice is being made. But attacks (especially those that are significant) can do a lot to work on a person's motivation. Pray for strength and resolve at home.

"In closing..."
On behalf of the suffering human beings who will directly benefit from your generosity, we say "thank you" and that we greatly appreciate your consideration in the matter at hand.

To make a donation (if you haven't done so already) please contact Ray Renner by phone at (765) 215-0180. It doesn't mean you have to have the money to us by then, but knowing what your involvement will be can help us better plan. Again, remember that all donations are tax deductible and April is closing in fast!

May God truly bless whatever you can do.

In Christ's Service,
Luke and Adrian Renner

HAITI RELIEF VIDEO ANNOUNCED!

2004-10-18T21:57:00.000-05:00

"UPDATE"
$3,550 has been raised!
We couldn't be happier about the progress that has been made. Several individuals have chosen to stand alongside the people of Haiti in this particular endeavor. We are confident that this project will happen completely in the perfect timing. Now more than ever, these fellow human beings need our support. Special thanks to those who have chosen to contribute. To the rest of you, please be encouraged. No goal is too big for God. Please don't hesitate to make a difference. The sooner we raise the funds, the sooner we get to work! As of now, we are tentatively looking at the beginning of December for the journey. If there is any amount (big or small) that you can contribute, please do not hesitate. Time is running out.
***please read on for further updates (in red).

"In Recent History"
Haiti has been victim to the enormous tragedy left in the devastating wake of Hurricane Jeanne.

For a short while, immediately following the devastation, major news networks carried the story. By the time the disaster disappeared from the radar of our major news outlets, the numbers of dead and missing were still on the rise.

"Out of sight, out of mind"
You wouldn't know it now because no one is reporting it. As far as the USA is concerned, news about the Haitian tragedy is simply not newsworthy any longer. By now, some estimates report that over 3,000 lives have been lost in Haiti as a direct result of the hurricane or the disease left behind from debris, garbage, and decaying bodies.

That's more lives lost than the awful tragedy we suffered on September 11th, 2001.

"The inside track..."
According to our sources "...the U.N. rushed in to deliver fresh water and food to the victims (during the first week of flooding). Sadly, only 25,000 people received any supplies. The roads were nearly impassable, mob scenes threatened and gang robbery was rampant. Even the dead were not buried as there is simply not the infrastructure to handle such massive disaster. Consequently, infectious diseases could bring a second wave of tragedy."
***UPDATE - The fears of the UN forces seem to be coming true. The second wave of the tragedy is upon the people of Haiti. And while some progress has been made at restoration, mud... over 18 inches deep... still covers many of the streets of Gonaives. Most suspect that numerous bodies are still buried within the mud which literally blocks entrances to homes and makes traversing the streets in vehicles an impossibility in many spots.

"Rising to the challenge"
Fireside International is thrilled to rise to this challenge. While some humanitarian groups have pulled out of Haiti for the time being (due to safety concerns), others remain and are working hard to meet the day to day needs.

Suffice it to say, the needs are overwhelming and a depleted workforce makes that burden more difficult to bear.

"Doing unto others"
In an effort to assist in meeting the needs, Fireside International will be traveling to Haiti to document the severity of the needs and then report those needs back to the caring people of the United States. Essentially, we seek to be the "eyes" and "ears" on the ground and to give an account long after the news outlets have headed home.

"THE GOAL"
The goal is to create a current report, offer a means by which the viewer can assist, and then make that report available to churches, civic groups, web surfers, and more.

An initial run of 1,000 DVDs will be made (supplemented by more as needed) and will be made available free of charge to anyone who feels they can assist in generating support through the dissemination of the information.

In short, we hope to take the dollars that are donated to this initiative and grow them into substantially larger dollars that otherwise might not have been supplied (due to the lack of a real vision concerning the need).

"FUNDS NEEDED."
While Haiti always has plenty of needs, the timing by which we seek to create this piece is critical. To put it bluntly, the time is now.

The budget has been set at $4,700.
This amount includes everything needed, from traveling, to shooting and editing, to the manufacturing of the first 1,000 DVDs for dissemination.

Through simple newspaper exposure in a single readership populace (around Grand Rapids, MI), GLOW Ministries International managed to raise $50,000 toward their present disaster relief fund. It is our desire to at least TRIPLE this number through the broad dissemination of a piece such as this (through churches, civic groups, and the like). It will literally be a grass roots effort at presenting the need to the most caring among us.

Please Help
To make a TAX DEDUCTABLE DONATION to this project, please send your check or money order to:

ATTENTION: Haiti Relief
Morning Star Church
2867 N 200 E
Anderson, IN 46012-9614

or donate via Credit Card or Debit Card by clicking the "Make A Donation" button, above on our sidebar. If you do choose to donate via the postal service, please send us an E-mail us and tell us what we can expect to receive and when.

"The ball is in your court"
Literally, this project WILL NOT HAPPEN unless your dollars are received. Please search your heart or seek God's will in this matter.

On behalf of the suffering human beings who will directly benefit from your generosity, we say "thank you" and that we greatly appreciate your consideration in this matter.

May God truly bless whatever you can do.

In Christ's Service,
Luke and Adrian Renner

"A more practical way to help..."

2004-10-09T10:14:00.000-05:00

Prayers, Players, and Payers!
I know that we have been asking all of you to pray for the people of Haiti during this especially difficult time. That certainly is an effective way to help. Yet another way is to assist them financially.

Please visit GLOW MINISTRIES' disaster relief effort to offer your financial support. And please, seriously consider this. These are good people who have given most of their lives to the betterment of the Haitian people. They can be trusted to help as they say they will.

God Bless!
Luke and Adrian Renner

Please Pray for Haiti

2004-09-21T23:45:00.000-05:00

"Jeanne Hits."
This post is devoid of any news related to the journey that Adrian and I are presently taking. Instead, we have opted to take this opportunity to appeal to the better angels of your nature. If you haven't heard, Haiti has recently been hit hard by one of this summer's awful hurricanes, Jeanne. So far, the death toll in Haiti has reached 1000 and may continue to rise.

If you've been to Haiti, it is no surprise how this could happen. We beg of you, please pray for the people of Haiti during the days to come. Pray without ceasing. It is the least we can do. It is also the most we can do.

Thank you for your willingness to plead the cause of the poor to Jesus Christ.

In Christ's Service,
Luke and Adrian Renner

Home from Haiti

2004-09-12T17:51:00.000-05:00

"Home again."
Well, we are finally home and we had a wonderful time! From the rich conversations with Phil and Bettie Snyder to the quiet solitude of the Caribbean washing up onto a pebble beach, it was a much-needed trip. Adrian particularly enjoyed the hissing sound the foam would make as it siphoned through the stones. The further the waves washed ashore, the louder the hiss. It was beautiful.

In the same fashion, the Haitian people were beautiful as ever.

"Trapped In Paradise Lost."
At one time in history, the island of Hispaniola (of which Haiti is a part) was known as the "Pearl of the Antilles" for its tremendous beauty and lush provisions in the way of natural resources and wealth. It was the prize of the Caribbean; a true island paradise.

Today, the country of Haiti (which makes up roughly the western half of the island) is the poorest country in this hemisphere of our planet. Furthermore, the lack of drinkable water in Haiti has been reported as being second to no other country on the entire planet. It is an ecological disaster; the kind of place that every environmentalist has nightmares about and every anarchist (out of self preservation) must ignore. In nearly every respect, it is a glimpse of Hell on earth.

"It stands to reason."
Haiti is the sort of place where Jesus might be found; somewhere out there on the naked mountains, walking barefoot along the rocky wash-outs, in the 100 plus degree heat. The nearest drip of an air conditioner vent, the chill of potable ice, and the comfort of a full stomach are far from these hills. The land is fierce. The life is unforgiving and the word "difficult" is comical in comparison to the reality of Haiti's challenges and pain. Brown water (riddled with parasites, human excrement, and stagnant chemicals), malaria-ridden mosquitoes, and the snares of thorny brush only add insult to injury in this place. It is a country which boasts every human rights violation known to man. Unfit for a prison. Unacceptable conditions for prisoners of war. And yet it remains, an unturned stone. It is a wound that the world willfully ignores, a festering infection we have somehow come to accept as tolerable.

"Follow The Leader."
How can we knowingly exist where Christ would not? How can we ignore his footprints or where they lead? The pull of comfort makes it easier for sure; especially when we see what thorn bush His tracks disappear behind or what darkened corner blends them into shadow.

The details are still faint on most days. We exist on a "need to know" basis and what we "need to know" often falls shy of what we wish we knew. But one thing has become clearer and more undeniable to us as we step out onto this limb; where He goes is where we must follow. If that's Kansas, then fine. If that's Haiti, then fine. It doesn't really matter. In the end, to obey is better than sacrifice.

"Where we stand."
While hurricane Frances managed to cripple the entire state of Florida and lengthened our recent visit to Haiti by a couple of days, we did finally make it back to American soil. However, spiritually speaking, we are still in a holding pattern, "circling the field" right at this very moment. There is a strong sense of leading that compels us to move forward but we are all the while attempting to abstain from rash or hurried decisions. We have a pretty good idea of what lies ahead but do not wish to conjure up any selfish agenda or a timing that is not of Christ. Suffice it to say though, we are CLOSE.

"Where we kneel."
Our prayer is that we will be faithful to Christ. We are confident that He is faithful to us. He always has been and we believe that He forever will be. So our only real fear is that we would fall short of complete obedience to Him or into complacency somewhere along the way. As you pray for us, please ask the Lord to continue to make His will crystal clear to us and to give us the strength to do away with our selfish tendencies and to be obedient. That is of paramount importance to us.

The only other thing that we continue to seek the Lord about is that those who are supposed to assist us in this endeavor would likewise find the strength to obey His leading when it comes. Undoubtedly, given the need for equipment and resources, we are fully aware that God will supply many of those things through the obedient support of others. If the challenge for those folks is anywhere near the challenge we have faced, obedience will be hard. We have found that, as servants of Christ (no longer bound to our own agenda), it can at times be extremely painful to do His full will. Pray that others who are to play some part in this outreach will have the strength to obey His leading.

"More to come..."
Please check back in the next few days for an announcement concerning our next move. The Lord may have us in for quite an adventure. We will see. In the meantime, if you feel like dropping us an E-mail or simply wish to respond to what we are saying, we invite that as well.

Stay tuned!

In Christ's Service,
Luke and Adrian Renner

"THE FIRST TRIP IS ON THE BOOKS!"

2004-08-26T18:22:00.000-05:00

"OFF WE GO..."
Greetings to all of you who give a hoot about what Adrian and I are up to these days. For those who do NOT know, I am presently in the final stages of transitioning from working full-time for the ever-so-popular Christian recording artist, Ray Boltz, and into a new direction toward which God has been "tractor-beaming" me for quite some time now; full time missionary service. Now DON'T FREAK OUT... it's not quite what you may think. Please read our mission statement for specifics.

"LOOKING BACK"
Though I am moving onward, I must say, my time with Ray has changed me forever and in deeper ways than most can imagine would be possible. What an absolutely fabulous experience I have had working for and getting to know an absolutely fabulous man. Honestly, catching such an eye opening perspective on "this side" of the Christian Music Industry (and from a guy so completely sincere about his "place" in it all) has probably saved my very life. It should go on public record, just how thankful I really am.

"SUFFICE IT TO SAY..."
The departure has absolutely NOTHING to do with bitterness or discontent between Ray and I. It's just God's perfect timing... for both of us.

"WHERE WE STAND."
We are feverishly preparing to embark on our very first trip under the new "Fireside International" division of my previously established production company, Fireside Pictures - Motion Picture Company.

Through the wonderful leading of God and the overwhelming and generous support of GLOW Ministries International (special thanks to Phil Snyder for "shaking those bushes"), our journey is about to begin.

The planning has been as usual, completely challenged and threatened on every level and every turn of the way. It actually becomes funny after a while. From the threat of utilities being shut off to a mini van full of kids breaking down in the heart of downtown Chicago (and that's just the stuff I'm allowed to mention)... the attacks are coming from every angle.

"WHERE WE KNEEL..."
Our hearts are growing more and more prepared as the date arrives. We do not worry for ourselves. But we are praying for God's protection for our children and other loved ones that we leave behind. From personal experience, I know just how unrelenting the attacks can be when folks are doing the will of the Lord. I cannot imagine why this case will be any different. Please, as you pray, remember our children and extended families in your prayers.

"THE LINE ITEMS."
If you are looking for additional things to pray for concerning this specific trip, here is a brief list:

1. The poor of the world; that they will know love.
2. That we will clearly hear the voice of the Lord.
3. That we will be selfless enough to obey the Lord.
4. God's grace as we make mistakes.

"WHAT MORE CAN WE SAY?"
We go willfully. We go with God. We go expecting direction and clarity. We expect God to ROCK OUR WORLD! Please join us in our expectations and do not hesitate to toss out a prayer or two for us as the days go by.

If our situation permits, I will post more to this board while we are in Haiti. If not, then a full report will be given upon our return. Thanks so much for your prayer and support! We'll see all of you again very soon.

God's Blessings,
Luke and Adrian